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Kitchen Operations Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Executive Kitchen Manager

Oak Lawn, IL · On-site

$84K - $100K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Oversee overall kitchen operations and lead the culinary team * Partner with the Culinary team to ... Work closely with management teams to conduct weekly food inventory * Partner with the General ...

The Events & Operations Manager is responsible for managing and executing banquet and event ... Retrieve menu cards from the Prep Kitchen, verify their accuracy with the chef, and bring the ...

... kitchen operations during an assigned shift. This leader supports restaurant management by ... directing Back-of-House Team Members, maintaining food safety and product-quality standards ...

The Events & Operations Manager is responsible for managing and executing banquet and event ... Retrieve menu cards from the Prep Kitchen, verify their accuracy with the chef, and bring the ...

Kitchen Operations: Maintain cleanliness and organization in the kitchen, adhering to health and ... Inventory Management: Help manage stock levels, including receiving and storing food supplies.

Kitchen Operations: Maintain cleanliness and organization in the kitchen, adhering to health and ... Inventory Management: Help manage stock levels, including receiving and storing food supplies.

Kitchen Leader In Training

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

If you are currently in a back-of-house or kitchen leadership position or culinary program or you ... Manages breaks and shift operations and task completion to set the next shift up for success.

Kitchen Leader In Training

Elmhurst, IL

$20 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

If you are currently in a back-of-house or kitchen leadership position or culinary program or you ... Manages breaks and shift operations and task completion to set the next shift up for success.

Marketing Operations Manager

Naperville, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... kitchen and the workplace. Learn more about Wilton at www.wilton.com. Description Are you ... As Marketing Operations Manager, you will drive operational excellence across the marketing ...

Kitchen Shift Leader

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

If you are currently in a back-of-house or kitchen leadership position or culinary program or you ... Manages breaks and shift operations and task completion to set the next shift up for success.

Marketing Operations Manager

Naperville, IL · Hybrid

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... kitchen and the workplace. Learn more about Wilton at www.wilton.com. Description Are you ... As Marketing Operations Manager, you will drive operational excellence across the marketing ...

Description An Assistant Kitchen Manager (AKM) is responsible for supporting the Kitchen Manager in the day-to-day operations of a kitchen, including supervising pizza cooks, maintaining food quality ...

Showing results 41-60

Kitchen Operations Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$36.6K

$81K

$134.9K

How much do kitchen operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for kitchen operations manager in Chicago, IL is $81,016.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,800.00 and $98,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Kitchen Operations Manager vs Kitchen Supervisor?

AspectKitchen Operations ManagerKitchen Supervisor
CredentialsExperience in management, culinary background often preferredFood safety certifications, experience in kitchen roles
Work EnvironmentOversees entire kitchen operations, manages staff and processesSupervises kitchen staff, ensures daily operations run smoothly
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in restaurants, hotels, catering servicesCommon in similar food service settings, often as frontline leadership
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for managerial roles overseeing kitchen functionsSeeking supervisory roles in kitchen settings

The main difference between a Kitchen Operations Manager and a Kitchen Supervisor lies in scope and responsibilities. The manager oversees overall kitchen operations, staff management, and strategic planning, while the supervisor focuses on daily supervision and task execution. Both roles require relevant food safety certifications and experience, but the manager typically has broader responsibilities and a higher level of oversight.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a kitchen operations manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Kitchen Operations Manager, you need expertise in food safety, inventory management, and staff supervision, often supported by culinary education or hospitality management experience. Familiarity with kitchen management software, POS systems, and certifications such as ServSafe are typically required. Strong leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help foster a productive work environment and ensure smooth operations. These competencies are crucial for maintaining high standards of food quality, safety, and team efficiency in a fast-paced kitchen setting.

What are some common challenges faced by kitchen operations managers, and how can they be addressed?

Kitchen Operations Managers often face challenges such as maintaining consistent food quality during busy periods, managing diverse kitchen staff, and controlling costs without sacrificing standards. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are crucial for addressing these issues. Implementing clear processes, conducting regular training sessions, and fostering a collaborative environment help ensure smooth operations and a positive team dynamic. Additionally, closely monitoring inventory and using data-driven scheduling can help balance costs and efficiency.

What does a kitchen operations manager do?

A Kitchen Operations Manager oversees the daily operations of a kitchen, ensuring food quality, safety, and efficiency. They are responsible for managing kitchen staff, maintaining inventory, enforcing health and safety regulations, and optimizing workflows. Their role often includes budgeting, ordering supplies, and collaborating with other managers to meet customer expectations. Ultimately, they ensure the kitchen runs smoothly, food is prepared to high standards, and all procedures comply with relevant regulations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Kitchen Operations jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Kitchen Operations jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Kitchen Operations Manager jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Kitchen Operations Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Kitchen Operations Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,016 per year, or $39 per hour.

Executive Kitchen Manager

Cooper's Hawk

Oak Lawn, IL • On-site

$84K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Cooper's Hawk rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 113 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 88 rated restaurants


Job description

As an Executive Kitchen Manager at Cooper's Hawk, you'll lead a fast-paced, high-volume scratch kitchen, driving the culinary execution of our uniquely inspired menu, thoughtfully paired with our wines. You'll be the culinary leader and coach, partnering with your team to ensure excellence in food quality, consistency, safety, and service. With a focus on uncompromising hospitality, you'll help shape a kitchen culture that delivers memorable guest and Team Member experiences.
Executive Kitchen Manager Compensation range is $84,000-$100,000/year + 15% bonus potential.
The final offered salary will be based on several factors, including but not limited to the candidate's depth of experience, skill set, qualifications, and internal pay equity.
What You Will Get
  • 50 percent Dining and Carryout Discount; 40 percent Retail Wine Discount; 20 percent Discount on Retail and Private Events
  • Monthly Complimentary Wine Tasting for Two
  • Medical, Prescription, Dental, Vision and Telehealth plus Wellness Discount
  • 401(k) with Company Match
  • Health & Flexible Savings Accounts- Health and Dependent Care
  • Long-Term Disability; Voluntary Short-Term Disability
  • Basic Life and AD&D Insurance (with option to purchase additional coverage)
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Time Off
  • Access to Team Member Relief Program
  • Wellness and Mental Health Support
  • "Everyday Benefits" Program to include insurance coverage (pet, life, auto, home/property) and employee discounts on goods and services
  • Team Member Rewards, Milestone Recognition and Referral Bonuses
  • Career Development Opportunities

How You Wi ll Succeed
Show Up Ready: Come prepared, stay sharp, and start strong .
  • Oversee overall kitchen operations and lead the culinary team
  • Partner with the Culinary team to embrace and execute new menu items
  • Use tools like POS systems, scheduling software, inventory/ordering systems, and Microsoft Office to stay organized
  • Maintain a safe and healthy work environment and uphold food safety standards
  • Lead menu rollouts, kitchen initiatives, and private events, including monthly Wine Club dinners

Own What You See: Take responsibility, jump in, and do what needs to be done .
  • Oversee final interviews and approve kitchen Team Member hiring decisions
  • Introduce and supervise the implementation of kitchen training materials
  • Review and approve schedules aligned with labor forecasting
  • Demonstrate deep knowledge of food quality, recipes, and kitchen systems
  • Maximize financial and operational results through effective planning and execution

Stay in Sync: Communicate often, move with your team, and keep service flowing .
  • Ensure strong collaboration between kitchen and front-of-house operations
  • Lead Community meetings and foster open communication across the team
  • Work closely with management teams to conduct weekly food inventory
  • Partner with the General Manager and other leaders to achieve restaurant goals
  • Ensure adherence to policies; manage and train others on standard operating systems/ procedures

Make It Personal: Be genuine, listen well, and tailor the experience .
  • Represent Cooper's Hawk values and by creating a respectful, positive, and professional kitchen culture
  • Develop and retain Managers and Team Members through coaching/mentorship
  • Ensure every dish reflects our commitment to quality and uncompromising hospitality

Add a Touch: Go beyond the expected to create memorable moments .
  • Inspire the team to take pride in their work and deliver exceptional food
  • Celebrate team achievements and milestones
  • Lead with passion and foster a kitchen environment that values excellence

What You Wi ll Need
  • 2-3 years of kitchen management experience in a full-service restaurant. Scratch kitchen experience preferred
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • A minimum age requirement of 21 years
  • Ability to read, understand and communicate in English
  • Demonstrates financial acumen
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite
  • Preferred certifications include ServSafe and state/local licensing requirements
  • Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
  • Must be able to stand for at least 10 hours per shift
  • Must have the ability to work 50-60 hours per week
  • Must be able to work flexible shifts and schedules, inclusive of weekends and some holidays

Cooper's Hawk reviews several factors when establishing compensation. Salaries and hourly wages appearing in a job posting may be published by third parties and may not reflect the salaries or hourly wages offered by Cooper's Hawk.
Cooper's Hawk is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to the person's race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Cooper's Hawk makes reasonable accommodations during all aspects of the employment process, including during the interview process.
The information provided above indicates the general nature and level of work required of the position and is not a comprehensive list of all responsibilities or qualifications. The Benefits list is only a highlight of some of the benefits offered to team members; eligibility for certain benefits apply.
About Us
Cooper's Hawk features a Napa-style tasting room with wine-inspired retail for entertaining and a full-service restaurant, bar and private event space, offering a modern-yet-casual dining experience. Each scratch-kitchen menu item is designed to pair with our wines. Speaking of wine...the Cooper's Hawk Wine Club is perhaps the largest in the world, offering not only top-notch award-winning wines but also exclusive Wine Club membership benefits, including curated dining and travel experiences. Since 2005, we've brought the Napa Valley experience to our guests and Wine Club members, and now, with Piccolo Buco by Cooper's Hawk, we're bringing the vibrant flavors of Rome to them as well. Together, we're creating a lifestyle brand like no other.

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